Moving vs. Non-Moving Violations

With the amount of drivers on the road nowadays, traffic control has become more of an issue than ever before. Traffic violations vary in seriousness and penalty—therefore, it is important for drivers to understand the basics types of traffic violations and how they can affect the driving population. Here, the traffic defense attorney Jeff Scholnick provides an overview on the two main types of traffic violations: moving and non-moving violations.

What are Moving Violations?

Moving violations occur when a driver commits a traffic violation in a moving vehicle. Some examples of moving violations include:

Speeding,

failure to yield,

failure to use turn signals,

driving a car with broken headlights, and

running a red light.

Moving violations are often seen as more serious offenses compared to non-moving violations. This is because moving violations can include serious offenses such as distracted driving or driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. However, moving violations, such as failing to fully stop at a stop sign, or making an improper turn, are relatively minor offenses with less consequence than driving while impaired.

What are Non-Moving Violations?

Non-moving violations occur when a vehicle not in motion breaks traffic code. These violations are usually related to parking negligence or defective vehicle equipment. Several examples of non-moving violations include:

Parking in front of a fire hydrant,

displaying an expired registration or insurance card,

lack of registration or insurance,

parking in a “no parking” zone,

A broken taillight, and

vehicle maintenance issues.

Non-moving violations can also include offenses that occur when a vehicle is in motion, including driving without a seatbelt or driving with malfunctioning vehicle equipment, such as a broken taillight. Unlike moving violations, non-moving violations are not representative of the quality of your driving or whether you were driving recklessly—instead, they most often involve technical issues. Therefore, you will not accrue points on your license for non-moving violations.

How Can Moving and Non-Moving Violations Affect Drivers?

While a minor parking or speeding ticket may not drastically affect your driving record, a series of traffic violations over time can affect both your license and your insurance. Committing frequent moving violations can result in the accumulation of points on your license and the possible loss of your license, depending on the severity of the traffic offenses. Additionally, the more serious a moving violation, the greater your insurance can be affected.

Speak to Traffic Defense Attorney Jeff Scholnick

While mistakes happen when behind the wheel, it would be a mistake to fail seeking legal representation when given a ticket for a moving or non-moving violation that you feel is unjust. Leaving traffic violations to chance is a gamble that often results in harsher penalties. If you choose to contest a ticket for a moving violation, it is important to make sure you understand the law and seek trustworthy legal counsel. Jeff Scholnick has years of experience representing those who been accused of committing a traffic violation. If you seek counsel for contesting a traffic violation, get in touch today for more information.